Harleston Sancroft Academy has sponsored a square in the Miyawaki Forest as part of its commitment to helping children value, respect and protect the natural world.
The school believes children should develop an understanding of nature, the environment and sustainability from an early age. By supporting the project, it is helping to create a greener future while encouraging pupils and the wider community to explore and enjoy the natural environment.
Rob Connelly, Headteacher, said: “This initiative reflects our dedication not only to caring for our own school environment, but also to making a positive contribution to the wider community by promoting environmental responsibility, biodiversity and a lasting connection with the world we share.
“We believe it is essential for children to develop a deep understanding of nature, the environment and the importance of sustainability from an early age.
“By supporting this project, we are helping to create a greener future while encouraging our pupils and the wider community to explore, investigate and enjoy the beauty of nature.”
Creating opportunities for children to engage with nature is an important part of life at Harleston Sancroft Academy. Alongside sponsoring its square in the Miyawaki Forest, the school is continuing to develop its pond area and outdoor classroom into a space designed to inspire curiosity, discovery and a lasting appreciation of the natural world.
Pupils also take part in regular litter-picking activities, helping to care for both the school grounds and the wider community. Meanwhile, the school’s newly established Eco Club has quickly become a popular and successful part of school life.
Members of the Eco Club were delighted to be invited to plant a tree within the academy’s sponsored square in the forest. They have also been developing their knowledge of the school grounds, learning more about local plants and trees, natural and man-made features, microhabitats and the wildlife that lives among them.
The club was launched for the first time this year and has quickly made its mark.
Mr Connelly said: “Our school is passionate about creating meaningful opportunities for children to connect with and care for the natural world.
“Alongside sponsoring our square in the Miyawaki Forest, we are continuing to develop our pond area and outdoor classroom into an inspirational environment that fills children with awe and wonder, encouraging curiosity, exploration and a love of nature.
“Our pupils regularly take part in litter-picking activities to help care for both the school grounds and the wider community, while our newly established Eco Club has become a hugely successful part of school life.
“We are incredibly proud of the enthusiasm our pupils have shown since the club was established and look forward to continuing to grow and develop it in the coming year as we strengthen our commitment to sustainability and environmental education.”
Image credit: Harleston Sancroft Academy